ASK THE EXPERTS

Got a question about your next cruise holiday? Get advice from our experts by emailing info@cruiseandtravel.co.uk

I’d like to treat my wife to a special cruise for her 50th birthday. Can you give me any great suggestions on how to impress her? James, Bristol

Chris Townson, MD UK & Europe, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, says: While all our cruises are special, my suggestion would be a luxury river cruise in the heart of Venice, because it will allow you to be fully immersed in the romance and history of the city, all in ultimate style. On a Uniworld cruise, you’ll be offered VIP experiences like a private visit to St Mark’s Basilica in the evening when all the crowds have gone, or access to the Doge’s Palace before it opens to the public. These exclusive moments really take the experience up to another level. We sail around the lagoon and islands on the beautiful Super Ship La Venezia, a floating boutique hotel designed to reflect Venice’s timeless elegance. The itinerary is well paced to give you time to really soak up the region, while allowing plenty of time to kick back with an Aperol Spritz on the top deck.

We want to book a Greek cruise this summer but don’t want to just visit the usual islands. Do you have any tips? Amber and Jonathan, London

Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal, says: As Greek specialists, we offer itineraries that are destination rich, so our cruises include marquee ports of call such as Santorini and Mykonos, as well as hidden gems like the beautiful islands of Patmos and Milos. On Patmos you’ll find the Unesco-listed Monastery of

St. John overlooking the island from its perch atop Chora, and the sacred Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John received his divine revelations. Once you’ve visited the historical sights, enjoy a seafood lunch in the port village of Skala. Then it’s on to the island of Milos, renowned for its coastlines, stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Don’t miss a visit to the picturesque village of Plaka, which has panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, or a trip to Sarakiniko Beach, renowned for its lunar-like landscape. You can enjoy these special islands on our Idyllic Aegean and Iconic Aegean cruises from March to October. CRUISEANDTRAVEL.CO.UK